"Sometimes the American Indian male makes the mistake of not considering Indian women as �warriors.�

But as the fortunes of the Indian male diminished in the late 1800s as his role as hunter and provider slowly vanished along with the herds of buffalo, it was the women who had to step forward and hold the families together. It was their strength and compassion that gave the male warrior the courage to make the changes in lifestyles that helped us to survive to this day.

The Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe is about to lose its most respected and prominent lady warrior. Della Warrior, Otoe-Missouria, president of the college since 1998 has decided it is time to move on. The very thought of finding someone to replace this living legend is frightening. She came to the school when it appeared to be on its last leg and breathed new life into it. She took a dying college and turned it into a thriving and dynamic institution. The fact of the matter is she is irreplaceable. Her moccasins are nearly too large for mortal followers. But I am sure that she has paved the way so that the school will continue to grow and prosper no matter who steps in to fill her shoes. That is the kind of woman she is."

Get the Story:
A fighting 'Lady Warrior' steps down (The Native American Times 11/28)

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